Taste the moment
Welcome to Ritorno al Passato
Ritorno al Passato, nestled in Piazza della Rotonda opposite the Pantheon, offers more than just a meal—it’s a feast for the senses. This charming Roman trattoria combines stunning views with genuine hospitality, creating an inviting atmosphere for both locals and visitors. The standout dishes, like their perfectly crafted spaghetti carbonara and rich penne arrabbiata with savory sausage, showcase authentic Italian flavors made with care. Paired with fine Italian wines, dining here feels like stepping back in time. The service is warm and attentive, making each visit memorable. Whether relaxing with a glass of wine or enjoying a full meal, Ritorno al Passato truly captures Rome’s culinary soul.
Chef’s Selections
Savor hand-crafted dishes and drinks
Story & Atmosphere
Ritorno al Passato
Ritorno al Passato, nestled in the heart of Rome at Piazza della Rotonda, 68, offers more than just a meal — it delivers an experience framed by history and charm. Sitting directly across from the Pantheon, this restaurant invites you to dine with one of the city’s most iconic landmarks as your backdrop. The atmosphere is effortlessly captivating, allowing you to savor authentic Italian flavors while watching life unfold in the bustling piazza.
The true highlight here is the breathtaking view of the Pantheon, which lends each visit a timeless quality. Whether you arrive on a sunny afternoon or an evening bathed in golden light, the scenery alone makes Ritorno al Passato worth a stop. This unique setting transforms a simple meal into a memorable moment, where time seems to slow down.
Food at Ritorno al Passato stands on its own merits. I have returned multiple times, drawn by the quality of their classic dishes. The penne arrabbiata with sausage is a fiery delight, perfectly balancing spice with savory richness. The fettuccine Alfredo with chicken is another standout—creamy, tender, and elevated by generous, moist pieces of chicken that outshine similar dishes elsewhere in the city. Carbonara here is crafted to perfection, silky and flavorful without being heavy, showcasing the finesse of traditional Roman cuisine.
The pizza also deserves mention: a crisp, flavorful base topped with fresh ingredients that complement the menu’s pasta offerings. Paired with a glass of carefully selected Italian wine, the meal becomes truly special. While some have noted slight service delays, the staff consistently exudes warmth and friendliness, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the main attractions — the food and the view.
Ritorno al Passato is more than just a restaurant; it’s a window into Roman culture and cuisine. The lively piazza, the historic aura of the Pantheon, and the dedication to authentic dishes combine to create a dining experience that feels both intimate and grand. Whether you’re indulging in a full meal or simply enjoying a glass of wine, this spot invites you to slow down, savor life, and return to the past in the best way possible.
What Guests Say
Guestbook
“ The location is definitely the main highlight. It’s right across from the Pantheon, which makes the experience extra special. You can enjoy your meal or drink while people-watching on the piazza, and the view alone already makes it worth a visit. The service was great and the staff were very nice and friendly. The food was good as well, so it’s not just about the location. A lovely spot to relax, enjoy the atmosphere, and take in the beautiful surroundings of the Pantheon. ”
“ The highlight of this restaurant is the view of the pantheon, we only had drinks here but they tasted slightly watered down compared to others we had when in Rome. I recommend visiting purely for the view, cannot comment on the food. ”
“ I've eaten at Ritorno al Passato a few times now. We always love their pasta. I had the penne with arrabbiata sauce. I had them add sausage which was fantastic. My wife had fettuccine Alfredo with chicken added. It vastly superior to the same dish served last night at another restaurant with a 4.5 rating. The chicken were good size and moist. The wine was very nice. Of course, the view of the Pantheon made the ambience incredible. This restaurant deserves a higher rating. Check out my profile for more great eateries and craft cocktail bars. -VanPort Insider ”
“ Got very lucky and sat here on a sunny day (although I can imagine that the view will ALWAYS be great here regardless as you dine in front of the Pantheon!). Carbonara was to perfection and the pizza we ordered was also delicious. Would come here again! ”
“ My Mother & I are having the most incredible dinner and experience here. The service was so personable and took amazing care of us. I highly recommend this place as it is close to the fontana di pantheon yet not too touristy like the restaurants along the Piazza Navona ”